Statement released as key Leeds United Premier League rivals confirm new manager
A large number of Leeds United’s Premier League rivals are making managerial changes this summer.
Leeds United’s Premier League rivals and the former club of an imminent Elland Road arrival have appointed a new manager.
Fulham are set for a summer of major change with their head coach and star man of the 2025/26 campaign both out the door. Marco Silva and Harry Wilson left Craven Cottage following the expiration of their respective contracts with the former taking charge of Benfica and the latter set to join Leeds.
Wilson has already agreed the terms of a free transfer to Elland Road and is expected to be revealed as a Leeds player imminently. Fulham director of football Tony Khan hoped the Welshman would wait to see who replaced Silva in the dugout before making a decision but it appears his mind was already made up.
Former Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa had been tipped to succeed Silva for several weeks and late on Tuesday night, Fulham confirmed the appointment. The 43-year-old signed a three-year contract at Craven Cottage in what is just his second permanent role after spending five months at the Bernabeu.
A Fulham statement read: “The Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Álvaro Arbeloa as the new Head Coach of Fulham. The 43-year-old has agreed a three-year deal, tying him to Craven Cottage until the summer of 2029.
“Following a trophy-laden playing career, Arbeloa’s coaching journey has been forged at arguably the biggest side in the world, starting with Real Madrid’s youth sides before taking charge of the senior team last season.”
Incoming head coach Arbeloa added: “It is a real honour for me to be embarking on this new stage at Fulham FC, the oldest club in London. I feel a great sense of responsibility and I'm deeply grateful to Mr. Khan and Tony Khan for the trust they have placed in me with Fulham in the Premier League.
“I am really looking forward to experiencing the atmosphere at Craven Cottage with Fulham fans and beginning pre-season with the players next week. I am sure we are going to enjoy an incredible journey together. Come on Fulham!”
Arbeloa will have plenty of time to implement his style on Fulham before travelling to Elland Road on December 19. The return fixture at Craven Cottage is currently pencilled in for February 27.